Investing in rental properties can be a lucrative venture, especially if you choose the right location. The U.S. offers a diverse range of cities with promising opportunities for rental property investments. From affordable entry prices to high rental yields and potential for property appreciation, these cities have something for every investor. In this article, we will explore some of the best cities to buy rental property in the U.S., based on various factors such as insurance costs, rental yields, vacancy rates, and property appreciation trends.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City stands out as one of the best places to buy rental property due to its favorable conditions:
- Low homeowners insurance cost: The average annual cost is approximately $740, making it affordable for property investors.
- Property price dynamics: Around 38.4% of homes experience price drops, while there’s a moderate year-over-year price increase of 7.9% for two-bedroom units.
Cincinnati, Ohio
Cincinnati offers a promising investment environment with a combination of low insurance costs and high property appreciation:
- Insurance and price dynamics: With an insurance cost of $979 and a significant 14.6% yearly price increase for two-bedroom units, Cincinnati is an attractive option.
- Price flexibility: 35.8% of homes have experienced price drops, indicating potential negotiation opportunities for buyers.
San Diego, California
San Diego is known for its robust property market, offering consistent growth:
- Affordable insurance: Homeowners insurance costs around $791 annually.
- Strong price growth: There’s a 13.4% annual price increase for two-bedroom units, reflecting a strong market.
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Portland, Oregon
Portland presents a unique opportunity with its high percentage of homes experiencing price drops:
- Insurance cost: The annual cost is $876.
- Price dynamics: 43.4% of homes have seen price drops, offering potential bargains, while two-bedroom units have a modest 2.8% price increase.
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Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis is another great city with a remarkable yearly price increase:
- Insurance considerations: Although the insurance cost is higher at $1,411, the city offers a 17.6% price increase for two-bedroom units.
- Price drops: 31.1% of homes have experienced price drops, providing negotiation opportunities.
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Cities with high rental yields
In addition to property price trends and insurance costs, rental yields are crucial for evaluating rental property investments. The following are cities known for their high rental yields:
| City | Gross rental yield | Vacancy rate | Median home price |
| Waco, Texas | 55% | 82% | $252,500 |
| El Paso, Texas | 61% | 74% | $250,570 |
| Lakeland, Florida | 52% | 57% | $314,800 |
Waco, Texas: With the highest gross rental yield of 55%, Waco stands out despite its high vacancy rate. The median home price is relatively low, making it an affordable entry point for investors.
El Paso, Texas: El Paso offers a compelling 61% gross rental yield. Although it has a high vacancy rate, the affordable median home price can be attractive.
Lakeland, Florida: Lakeland provides a 52% rental yield with a median home price of $314,800, presenting a balanced investment opportunity.
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Cities with strong property appreciation
For investors looking for long-term growth, cities with significant property appreciation offer promising prospects:
- Boise, Idaho: Known for a staggering 218% appreciation over time and a 12% yearly growth rate.
- Phoenix, Arizona: Anticipates a remarkable 130% home value increase, making it a hot spot for property appreciation.
- Nashua, New Hampshire: Expected property value gains range from 25% to 50% over the next decade, providing a solid long-term investment potential.
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Choosing the best city for rental property investment depends on your investment strategy. Whether you prioritize high rental yields, low entry prices, or potential for property appreciation, the U.S. offers diverse options tailored to different investment goals. Salt Lake City, Cincinnati, and San Diego are notable for their price dynamics and insurance costs, while Waco, El Paso, and Lakeland shine with their rental yields. For those eyeing long-term growth, Boise, Phoenix, and Nashua are promising choices for property appreciation. Evaluate these factors carefully to find the best places to buy rental property that align with your investment objectives.